Rolex

1978 Rolex GMT-Master (Ref. 1675) Mk. II Dial "Blueberry"

$ 55,000

Within the vintage Rolex collecting community, the all-blue “Blueberry” bezel insert has become a well-known variation associated with the GMT-Master reference 1675. While period Rolex catalogs and advertising materials do not document a factory configuration pairing the reference with an all-blue bezel, many collectors believe these inserts originated through Rolex service channels rather than standard production.

Examples began appearing within the collecting market in the early 2000s, reportedly sourced from an official Rolex service center. Because of this, many seasoned collectors view the Blueberry insert as a period Rolex service component produced during the lifespan of the GMT-Master rather than a bezel fitted to watches when originally delivered from the factory. The deep blue tone of the insert offers a distinctive alternative to the more commonly seen red and blue “Pepsi” or all-black bezel configurations and has become a recognizable aesthetic within the broader GMT-Master collecting landscape. Interestingly, the "Blueberry" inserts do possess key font and manufacturing characteristics seen in other period inserts, such as serrifs on the font 

Today, the Blueberry insert represents one of the many fascinating variations that emerged during the decades-long production of the GMT-Master. For collectors who appreciate the nuances of vintage Rolex components and the subtle evolution of the model over time, it remains a compelling and visually striking configuration.

SPECS

Stock # RLXGMT781675BB-2
Brand Rolex
Style GMT-Master
Model 1675
Serial 51XXXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Matte Black "Mk. II"
Millimeters 40
Bracelet Rolex 62510H Jubilee Bracelet W/ 555 End Pieces

 

CASE & BRACELET

The sharp chase shows wear from use, yet is believed to remain in an unpolished condition, as the case retains its original factory case chamfers and is overall symmetrical, showing thick and even lugs. The excellent "blueberry" insert, correct with "ghost triangle", shows signs of light fading but retains its striking blue color. The Rolex 62510H Jubilee bracelet with 555 end pieces is a later service unit that retains 19 links that show moderate stretch and will fit up to a 7.75-inch wrist

DIAL & HANDS

The wonderful Mk. II dial remains in flawless condition. The lume plots have taken on a gorgeous creamy patina and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and, like the dial, exhibit no lume loss or degradation when inspected under UV light. The silver date wheel is era-correct, with "open" 6s and 9s.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.

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